PMJAY Fraud and Scams — How to Stay Safe
The Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme is completely free for beneficiaries. Yet fraudsters target vulnerable families with scams related to card generation, fake hospitals, and unauthorised charges. This guide helps you identify common frauds and protect yourself.
Common PMJAY Frauds
Card generation fee scam: Agents or touts who charge ₹500-5,000 to “make” your Ayushman Bharat card. The card is 100% free — at CSCs, empanelled hospitals, and through the ABHA app. Never pay anyone for card generation.
Fake eligibility agents: People claiming they can get your name added to the PMJAY beneficiary list for a fee. Eligibility is based on SECC 2011 data and cannot be manipulated by agents. Only the state health agency can add new beneficiaries through official channels.
Hospital overcharging: Some empanelled hospitals demand cash from patients for medicines, room upgrades, or “uncovered” items. Under PM-JAY, everything covered in the package is free. Any cash demand is a violation.
Ghost claims: Hospitals filing claims for treatments that were never performed, using your PM-JAY card details without your knowledge. This drains your ₹5 lakh coverage without you receiving any treatment.
Unnecessary procedures: Some hospitals may recommend unnecessary surgeries or tests to maximise their PM-JAY claims. Always get a second opinion for major surgeries.
How to Protect Yourself
Never pay for the card: The Ayushman Bharat card is always free. If someone asks for money, it is a scam.
Check your treatment history: Periodically check your PM-JAY claims history through the ABHA app or by calling 14555. If you see claims for treatments you never received, report immediately.
Keep your card details private: Do not share your PM-JAY card number, Aadhaar number, or OTPs with unknown callers or agents.
Verify the hospital: Before seeking treatment, check if the hospital is genuinely empanelled on PMJAYHospitals.com or the official PMJAY website.
How to Report Fraud
Call 14555 and select the complaint option. Provide details of the fraud — the person’s name, hospital name, amount demanded, and any evidence you have. You can also file complaints through the Ayushman Bharat app or by visiting the District Collector’s office.
Hospitals found committing fraud face de-empanelment, blacklisting, monetary penalties, and criminal prosecution. The National Anti-Fraud Unit under NHA actively investigates reported cases.
Disclaimer: PMJAYHospitals.com is an independent directory. For official PM-JAY information, visit pmjay.gov.in or call 14555.